How is parchment paper made?

Parchment paper is a specialized type of paper that is often used in baking and cooking due to its non-stick properties and heat resistance. The process of making parchment paper typically involves the following steps:

**Sourcing Fibers**: Parchment paper is primarily made from wood pulp. The cellulose fibers from trees, usually from softwood species such as pine or fir, are collected and processed.

**Pulping**: The wood is chipped and then subjected to a chemical or mechanical process to break it down into a pulp. This pulp is then washed and bleached to create a clean, white base.

**Sheet Formation**: The pulp is mixed with water, and the mixture is spread out on a flat surface or a conveyor belt to form sheets. The water is drained off, and the sheets are pressed together to remove excess moisture.

**Drying**: The moist sheets are dried using heated rollers or in a drying oven. This process helps to solidify the pulp into a sturdy sheet of paper.

**Sulfuration**: To create the characteristic non-stick surface, the dried sheets are treated with sulfuric acid. This process partially gelatinizes the cellulose fibers, giving parchment its unique texture and heat resistance. The treatment contributes to the paper's ability to repel moisture and prevent sticking.

**Finishing**: Once treated, the parchment paper is rinsed, dried again, and sometimes coated with a silicone layer for additional non-stick properties. 

**Cutting and Packaging**: Finally, the parchment paper is rolled into sheets or cut into specific sizes for packaging and distribution.

This entire process results in a versatile baking paper that can withstand high temperatures and is suitable for a variety of cooking and baking applications.